Paris Jackson, daughter of the late Michael Jackson has provided an intimate look into her childhood at the iconic Neverland Ranch. In a recent appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast, Paris shared details about her early years, challenging many perceptions of life on the famous estate.
The ranch, inspired by the mythical land from Peter Pan was more than just a playground for Paris and her brothers, Prince and Bigi. Paris clarified that their time at Neverland was limited to her early years, and their lives there were governed by a strict set of rules and responsibilities.
Strict Rules and Family Traditions
Paris revealed that her family’s time at Neverland was marked by a structured routine. She and her brothers were homeschooled in a designated classroom on the property. The attractions, including the zoo and amusement park rides, were primarily for underprivileged children and those with terminal illnesses who couldn’t visit Disneyland.
“It was made very, very clear that all of the attractions there were not for us,” Paris explained. “That was for underprivileged children and children that were terminally ill that couldn’t go to Disneyland.” The Jackson children were rewarded for completing their chores and homework with weekend outings to see the animals or ride the attractions.
The family also had strict rules about television and movies. Paris mentioned that they weren’t allowed to watch TV unless it was for educational purposes or as a weekend reward. This discipline, she believes, helped shape her character. “It would’ve been cool, but no, I probably would have grown up to be an asshole,” she quipped.
The Jackson Family’s Unique Lifestyle
Paris also discussed the family’s practice of wearing masks in public, which she found practical. “It just made sense because it was like, ‘Oh yeah, if you do this now, then you can go to Chuck-E-Cheese and be normal this weekend because no one will know who you are,’” she said.
The Jackson family’s lifestyle was nomadic, often moving from place to place. Paris mentioned that they would “hotel-hop” and rarely stay in one location for more than a year. This transient lifestyle extended their rules and rewards system. For instance, if they behaved well, they might be treated to a day at Circus Circus in Las Vegas or Chuck E. Cheese in Virginia.
Despite the extravagant setting, Paris’s childhood was grounded in responsibility and discipline. She fondly remembers her father as a “really funny guy” and her best friend. Michael Jackson passed away in 2009, leaving a lasting impact on his children.
Paris Jackson’s Reflections on Her Father
Paris also opened up about her father’s influence on her life. She recalled speaking at his memorial service when she was just 11 years old. “It kind of just happened in the moment,” she said. “It felt like someone’s got to say something.” This moment highlighted the close bond she shared with her father.
Paris’s revelations offer a unique perspective on the Jackson family’s life, challenging the glamorous image often associated with Neverland Ranch. Her stories provide a glimpse into the disciplined and responsible upbringing that shaped her into the person she is today.
